Spring can’t come soon enough to Cape May County this year, and neither can the Spring Harvest Benefit for the United Way of Cape May County at the Deck, 3401 Pacific Avenue, Wildwood. The event is being organized by Dan Higman, of Weichert Realtors Coastal as a fun way for locals to rally around a local charity.

It will be held at The Deck, 3401 Pacific Avenue, on March 12, from 6 -9 p.m and includes open bar, butlered hors d’oeuvres, beef tenderloin, and pasta. Door prizes, raffles and a silent auction are also planned.

The money raised will support United Way programs that help local residents as they weather difficult economic times.

United Way Executive Director Suzanne Nardi said Spring Harvest event couldn’t come at a better time. In recent months, the United Way food pantry has seen an unprecedented need for both food and personal items.

“The cold weather and economic factors are both taking their toll,” she said. “Local families need more help than ever, and this event is a great way to celebrate community while helping our neighbors who need it.”

The benefit will restock pantry shelves and help cover the operational costs for United Way’s Hot Lunch program, which provides residents with a much-needed hot meal every Thursday in the winter, plus information and resources to help get their lives back on track. The benefit will also support the United Way’s summertime efforts to provide healthy bag lunches to working families.

“We wanted to do something to help take care of some of the people who live right here in our own community,” Higman said.

Tickets can be purchased from Dan Higman or Jennifer Haig for a donation of $60 by calling 523-1112 or visiting their office at 3300 Pacific Avenue, Wildwood.